Mines Minister Cautions Mining Firms Against Environmental Breaches

By Staff Reporter 

Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe has warned Mining firms against engaging in irresponsible mining activities that disregard environmental sustainability and the health of the people in the communities they operate in.

The ministers remarks follows the discovery that Avocado mining limited in Kalulushi district on the Copperbelt was discharging fumes resulting into sulphur dioxide which affected the communities living in close proximity.

Mr. Kabuswe says the ministry also established that Avocado mining was cited by ZEMA for a number of environmental breaches among them is the discharging of a contaminate into the environment without an emission licence.

Speaking in parliament when he gave a ministerial statement, Mr. Kabuswe said operations have since been suspend at the mine to ensure that the mine complies with all applicable legislation on safety.

Mr. Kabuswe has since cautioned mining firms against environmental breaches further stating that Government is undertaking institutional reforms aimed at promoting responsible Mining taking into account tenants of environmental, social and governance issues.